Finance and Operations Manager (Millbranch ES)

School Finance Manager and Operations Manager

Freedom Preparatory Academy Charter Schools is a network of PreK-12 free public charter schools serving students in Memphis, TN, and Birmingham, AL. Our mission is to prepare all students in grades PreK-12 to excel in college and in life. Since our founding in 2009, we have grown from a class of 96 sixth grade students to now serving over 1950 students across multiple campuses. In 2024, we expanded into Birmingham, AL, starting with grades K-1, with plans to grow to a K-5 campus.

At Freedom Prep, we are committed to transforming education for students across the South, ensuring they have access to high-quality educational opportunities that empower them to thrive. Over the past 15 years, our students have consistently exceeded both local and state averages in math and have surpassed local benchmarks in English Language Arts on state assessments. Our mission is guided by three core beliefs: every child deserves the right to a high-quality public education, character development is essential to student success, and exposure to diverse opportunities builds the confidence and skills needed to excel in college and in life.

At Freedom Prep, we cultivate a structured, academically rigorous environment that fosters excellence in core subjects, promotes advanced academic skills, and encourages students to embody the core values of Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Excellence, and Community.

Position Overview

The School Finance Manager and Operations Manager plays a key role in managing the financial and administrative tasks of a school. This position is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, processing payments, managing budgets, and supporting general office operations to ensure the school operates efficiently and complies with financial policies and procedures.

Work Schedule

Full-time during school hours, with occasional additional hours for special events or meetings.

Reporting Structure

This position reports to the Head of School (Principal). This position receives support from the Regional Business Manager & Managing Director of Operations.

Physical Demands

Ability to sit, stand, and move around the school building as necessary. May require occasional lifting of financial records or moving office supplies (up to 25 lbs).

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management:

• Prepare, maintain, and reconcile financial records, including accounts payable, and accounts receivable through the network-approved financial management system.
• Track and report on school budgets and expenditures, ensuring compliance with network, state, and federal policies.
• Collect and process fees and other payments through LINQ Connect.
• Assist in preparing financial reports, audits, and end-of-year documentation.
• Monitor and report on grant or special program funds as assigned.

Administrative Support:

• Maintain organized and accurate files for financial and administrative records.
• Prepare purchase orders, invoices, and credit card expense reports.
• Assist with student activity accounts, fundraising events, and school-sponsored programs, as needed.
• Ensure all student & family transactions are documented through LINQ Connect.

Asset Management/Asset Tracking:

• Implement and maintain systems to track assets such as technology, educational materials, and supplies. This includes ensuring that assets are logged, tagged, and tracked across locations.

Furniture and Equipment:

• Overseeing the procurement, maintenance, and disposal of furniture, desks, chairs, and other school equipment.

Technology Equipment:

• Managing computers, laptops, projectors, interactive whiteboards, and other electronic devices, ensuring they are properly maintained, replaced, and secure.

Communication and Coordination:

• Serve as a liaison between the school, district office, vendors, and other stakeholders regarding financial matters.
• Respond to inquiries from staff, parents, and vendors in a professional and timely manner.
• Communicate updates and reminders about financial deadlines to staff and parents.

General Office Duties:

• Support the front office as needed, including answering phones, assisting visitors, and handling general inquiries.
• Ensure confidentiality and security of all financial records.

Qualifications:

Minimum Education and Experience:

• High school diploma or equivalent (Associate's degree in accounting, finance, or business administration preferred).
• Experience in bookkeeping, accounting, or a related field, preferably in an educational setting.

Skills and Abilities:

• Proficiency in accounting software, spreadsheets, and office applications (e.g., Microsoft Excel, QuickBooks, or school-specific platforms).
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of financial compliance and school budget management is a plus.
• A strong commitment to supporting educators and the overall mission of Freedom Preparatory Academy
• Certifications (Preferred): Certification in bookkeeping, finance, or office administration. A strong commitment to the mission and vision of Freedom Preparatory Academy Charter Schools.

Key Competencies:

Integrity and discretion in handling sensitive financial information. Attention to accuracy and timeliness in financial reporting. Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the smooth functioning of the school environment while fostering strong relationships within the school community.

$40,000 - $60,000 a year

We are excited that you are inspired or called to learn more about our mission, values, and potential opportunities. We'd encourage you to explore a few additional resources about us, the recent investment for what's possible, and why you should consider our community as a place for you to become a part of. We are one of the few networks that centers the whole person and their needs to thrive and support themselves and their families in the South.

Benefits and Compensation: At Freedom Prep, we prioritize transparency in everything we do. We believe that open communication fosters trust and collaboration. As part of this commitment, we make our salary scales available online for you to view, ensuring clarity and fairness in our compensation practices. You can view our compensation scales on our website.

Check out some of the unique and rare benefits here, including but not limited to:

• Paying higher, scaffolded teacher salaries from Year 1 to retirement stage
• Zero dollar monthly premium options, including holistic options such as chiropractic or acupuncture care (TN ONLY)
• Focus on staff well-being and collective care through our Adult Social-Emotional Learning
• Support in obtaining licensure

Our Commitment: Freedom Preparatory Academy is actively seeking to build an experienced team of educators. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, handicap, age, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin. We are an equal opportunity employer.